Electric ﬁeld bridging-effect in electriﬁed microﬁbrils’ scaffolds

Front. Bioeng. Biotechnol., 2023 · DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1264406 · Published: October 25, 2023

Simple Explanation

This paper explores using biocompatible scaffolds with neural stem cells to help regenerate damaged neural tissue, especially after spinal cord injuries. Aligned Polylactic Acid (PLA) microﬁbrils' scaffolds support cells, promote their survival, and guide their differentiation to repair lesions. The European RISEUP project aims to combine high intense microseconds pulses and DC stimulation with neurogenesis, supported by a PLA microﬁbrils’ scaffold. This paper presents a numerical study on how microﬁbrils’ scaffolds affect electric field distribution in planar interdigitated electrodes. Realistic microﬁbrils’ 3D CAD models were built to carry out a numerical dosimetry study.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Not specified

Evidence Level

Level 5: Numerical Modeling and Dosimetry

Key Findings

1
Microﬁbrils redistribute the electric field, focusing it in the spaces between the fibers, allowing the field to pass through. With a 10V voltage, the field can reach up to 100 kV/m.
2
The median electric field inside the scaffolded electrodes is about 90% of the nominal field, providing adequate cell exposure.
3
The microﬁbrils' spatial density is the most impactful parameter; the presence of the microﬁbrils focuses the field streamlines in the interfibrillar space.

Research Summary

The study investigates the electric field distribution in a microfibril scaffold for nerve regeneration, focusing on PLA microfibrils due to their biocompatibility but insulating nature. Realistic microfibril models were created and analyzed to assess the impact of their spatial density, diameter heterogeneity, and shape on the electric field distribution. Results indicate that the microfibrils focus the electric field in the interfibrillar space, with the field reaching high values, and that, on average, the scaffolded electrodes maintain approximately 90% of the nominal electric field.

Practical Implications

EPB Device Design

The findings contribute to the design and optimization of Electropulsed Biohybrid (EPB) devices for spinal cord injury treatment, ensuring adequate electric field exposure for cells within the scaffold.

Manufacturing Process Awareness

The research provides valuable insights into the manufacturing process of microfibril scaffolds, highlighting the importance of controlling fiber density and spatial distribution to optimize electric field distribution.

Cell Stimulation

The study supports the use of PLA microfibril scaffolds in conjunction with electrical stimulation for enhanced cell growth, differentiation, and tissue regeneration in neural engineering applications.

Electric ﬁeld bridging-effect in electriﬁed microﬁbrils’ scaffolds

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

EPB Device Design

Manufacturing Process Awareness

Cell Stimulation

Study Limitations

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Electric ﬁeld bridging-effect in electriﬁed microﬁbrils’ scaffolds

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

EPB Device Design

Manufacturing Process Awareness

Cell Stimulation

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?